Hello friends and family,

I am writing in hopes you might be able to help one of my students in crisis. As you know, this year has been particularly challenging for so many students, but especially for the most vulnerable.  Still, their perseverance and grit is inspiring.  Sometimes we just can't do it all. This fundraiser is for one of my AVID students, Margarita Soto-Telles, a promising first generation student who needs your help. Over this weekend, she learned that her father had a sudden and massive stroke. He was put on life support over the weekend but unfortunately, Margarita had to say her final goodbyes this afternoon. I lost my father earlier this year.  I am 39. She is only 15. Just so incredibly unfair. 

I have encountered thousands of students over my 13 years in teaching and this one is made of some special things. 4.0 student. Low income family. Codes for fun. Takes care of younger brother. The type of student that asks a teacher "how are you, really?" Dreams big. Smiles big! This past Monday, she called me from the hospital bathroom in shambles and in fear for the future. Her father was the sole earner in the family and now that he has passed, they are worried about how they will pay for rent and basic necessities. I am hoping to raise some serious funds to alleviate whatever weight I can for this family, for the memorial, for immediate needs, for rent, for survival. All gifts will be going directly to the family. Please consider donating. This one is particularly close to me. Please share this if you can. Thank you all. 

Jonathan